Steelers Blog

Tackle Mike Adams, the Steelers’ second round draft pick this year, was selected as the “Joe Greene Great Performance Award” winner by the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Pro Football Writers of America. The award is given annually to the team’s outstanding rookie.

“To have anything with that name on it associated with you is definitely an honor,” said Adams, who grew up a Steelers fan. “He is one of the best Steelers of all time and someone we have all looked up to. To be able to win the Joe Greene award is something I am thankful for and definitely feel blessed.”

Adams is the third straight offensive lineman to win the award, as tackle Marcus Gilbert won it in 2011 and center Maurkice Pouncey in 2010.

“It feels great,” said Adams. “Coming after a guy like Marcus Gilbert last year, it feels good to keep it in the offensive line room.”

Adams made his first start against Cincinnati on Oct. 21, and started six games at right tackle this season. In his first three starts the team had a 100-yard rusher each week, two from Jonathan Dwyer and one from Isaac Redman.

Adams injured his ankle against Cleveland on Nov. 25, and has been inactive for the last four games.

“It’s football and things like that happen,” said Adams. “You just have to roll with the punches and try to keep getting better. I definitely would have liked to be out there a little more and not have gotten hurt. But I’m thankful for the chance that I got.”